What does commendam mean?
A commendam is a grant of the income of a church or other ecclesiastical benefice, usually made to a bishop or other high-ranking clergy member. This allows them to retain the income while the benefice remains vacant. The term is often used in historical or ecclesiastical contexts, and is typically associated with a vacant benefice. A commendam is not a permanent appointment, but rather a temporary arrangement that allows the bishop or clergy member to retain the income of the benefice. This can be useful in situations where the benefice is vacant due to the holder's absence or other circumstances. The term has been in use since the Middle Ages, and is still used today in certain ecclesiastical contexts. It is an important concept in the history of the Church, and continues to be relevant in modern times.
nounA commendam is a grant of the income of a church or other ecclesiastical benefice, usually made to a bishop or other high-ranking clergy member, allowing them to retain the income while the benefice remains vacant.
- A grant of the income of a church or other ecclesiastical benefice.
"The bishop was granted a commendam of the local church, allowing him to retain its income while he served as a diplomat in a foreign country."
"The bishop was granted a commendam of the local church, allowing him to retain its income while he served as a diplomat in a foreign country."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of commendam
The term 'commendam' is derived from the Latin 'commendare', meaning 'to commend' or 'to recommend'. It was first used in the 13th century to describe a grant of the income of a church or other ecclesiastical benefice. Over time, the term has evolved to include a range of related concepts, including the grant of income and the temporary appointment of a bishop or clergy member.
How commendam is actually used
A commendam is typically granted to a bishop or other high-ranking clergy member, and is usually associated with a vacant benefice. The term is often used in historical or ecclesiastical contexts.